Calamity Campground

Signs and Info

Campsites

Facilities

Recreation

Name: Calamity Campground

Calamity Campground is set on the south shore of Palisades Reservoir not far from the Dam. This is a hilly area covered with smaller trees and brush. The campsites are leveled sites and offer some privacy but little shade at most sites. Loop C is very steep and not recommended for trailers or motor homes. Most sites were available at the time of our visit but we came in the middle of the week. There is a very nice boat launch with a large parking area and a small picnic area.

Campsites: There are 42 campsites in 3 loops. Loop A and B are available for your RV while loop C is steep and not recommended for trailers. Tents and campers are okay. Each site has a picnic table, fire pit with attached grate and some have a camp stove table. The road and driveways are gravel. The campground is set on some hills near the reservoir.

Host on Site: Yes

Water: Yes, there is a pressurized water system with cool, clear water available.

Garbage Services: Yes

Electricity Available: No

Restroom: There are multiple vault style outhouses. Each were clean and well stocked at the time of our visit.

Handicap Accessible: The outhouses are handicap accessible.

Firewood: Firewood may be purchased from the camp host for $6 per bundle.

Pets: Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash.

Picnic Area: There are a couple tables with fire pits in the day-use area but no real picnic area.

Recreation: Camping, fishing, boating, hiking and 4 wheeling are the most popular activities. If you enjoy hiking, check out the Palisades Creek Trail to Upper and Lower Palisades Lakes. There is another trail above Elk Creek Campground.

Fishing: Fishing is available in Palisades Reservoir, the South Fork of the Snake River and if you're up to a hike, Palisades Creek, as well as Upper and Lower Palisades Lakes. Check the regulations here.

Boating: There is a large boat launch and day use area with a large parking area just before the campground. Check out the picture link.

Swimming: Swimming is available at your own risk in the reservoir.

Wildlife: Deer, moose, elk, grizzly and black bear are the most common big animals in the area, but one will likely spot bald eagles and Osprey over the lake and there are many small forest animals.

Additional Camping Opportunities: We have reviews for these nearby campgrounds; Mike Harris Campground, Pine Creek Campground, Riverside Park Campground, Falls Campground, Palisades Creek Campground, Big Elk Creek Campground, Blowout Campground, Alpine Campground and McCoy Creek Campground.

Phone service: No pay phone available but we had decent cell reception with our ATT phones.

Nearby Services: There are a series of small stores and resorts along Highway 26 or you could drive to Alpine, WY for camp supplies like food, gas and one location even advertised "square ice cream".

RV Dumping Site: There is an RV dump station available in the park just below the dam for a fee of $5.

Location/Driving instructions: From Boise, Idaho follow this Google Map. To customize this map substitute your location for Boise, Idaho.

Coordinates: 43.327536,-111.215432

Elevation: 5671 Feet

Reviewed Date: July 2012

Fees And Reservations: These campsites may be reserved at recreation.gov. As of April 2017 double sites are $24, singles are $12.

This information is accurate as of the date of the review.